February means a great deal to all of us at Global Traveler, as this was the month we launched the first issue in 2004. At that time, a lot of doubting Thomases wondered whether GT would be just another publication passing in the night or a great success (as we always knew it would be).

So many of you picked up that first issue and have been loyal subscribers since. Perhaps you picked it up in Frankfurt or Chicago O’Hare. Maybe you saw it at The Peninsula or the Four Seasons. Others found us through our marketing efforts with MileagePlus, Priority Club Rewards, OnePass, SkyMiles, Marriott Rewards and other loyalty programs. We continue the challenging task of reaching high-profile travelers like you.

This issue of Global Traveler is a culmination of our efforts over the years to retool the editorial and design components to meet the ever-changing travel environment. I think travelers will agree — there have been more changes in the last eight years than the previous 10. With 9/11, there was a beginning and an end; with this current global economic crisis, the end still seems far off in the distance.

We are fortunate at Global Traveler to be riding the economic wave at the top. Our last two issues have brought in record revenues on every level. This is why we continue to change and develop the magazine — and you are in for a treat with the March issue! Hold your breath; we have dramatic changes in store.

Until next time, savor our current look and prepare for the next generation of travel magazines … next month!